Poor weather delayed Waddington – in this particular car – and he was excluded from the event before reaching Lyon. However, excluded parties could continue to Monte Carlo to compete in the Driving Tests on the promenade at the end of the rally – a detour rendered worthwhile when the pair finished 3rd in the standalone event.

In April, VRW 221 was driven in the Circuit of Ireland Rally by former Works Jaguar and Ecurie Ecosse driver Desmond Titterington. Co-driven by Brian McCaldin, Titterington secured 2nd behind fellow Ulsterman Hopkirk, ensuring a welcome 1-2 for Standard-Triumph. Later that month, Ron Gouldborn assumed driving duties of VRW 221 for the Tulip Rally and – ably assisted by Stuart Turner – scored a class win and 10th overall.

In the Rallye des Alpes, VRW 221 reverted to being crewed by Titterington and McCaldin, finishing 8th overall and 3rd in class. The car’s final Works outing was the Tour de France, driven by Australians David McKay and David Lewin. The car ran strongly throughout, and was running 15th overall on the final night before brake problems caused them to crash into retirement on the final day.

Sold by the Works in 1959 to former driver Ron Goldbourn, a succession of owners ensued before VRW 221 entered long-term ownership with Martyn King, who sensitively restored the car, taking great care to preserve as many original components as possible. After a period of Austrian ownership between 1996 and 2009, the car was repatriated to the UK and has remained there since, competing in numerous historic rallies, including the Three Castle Rally and the Rally of the Tests.

Impeccably presented – with unusual competition hardtop – in its original colours of Apple Green over brown leather, VRW 221 remains a highly significant car. Thought to be the only one of the ’58 Monte Carlo cars surviving, it retains its original engine and 'period' rally spotlights, and is eminently eligible for the myriad historic rallies and tours currently operating worldwide.